Huano Grape Orange vs. Gateron Ink Box Pink

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Grape Orange and Gateron Ink Box Pink offer distinct experiences that cater to different typing preferences. The Grape Orange switch is celebrated for its exceptionally light actuation force of just 40g, creating a seamless and effortless typing experience that is particularly beneficial during long typing sessions. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switches are known for their smooth operation and a unique high-pitched clack, which some users find satisfying and engaging. While both switches are categorized as linear, meaning they do not have a tactile bump or click, the Grape Orange leans towards a lightweight typing feel, whereas the Ink Box Pink offers a more pronounced auditory feedback with a silky, polished touch. Ultimately, your choice may depend on whether you prioritize a feather-light typing experience or a more characterized sound while typing. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

Huano Grape Orange Linear

Gateron Ink Box Pink Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Huano Grape Orange and the Gateron Ink Box Pink switches exhibit contrasting characteristics in their housing materials, which significantly influence their auditory and tactile responses. The Grape Orange features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiff nature, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This resonance is further enhanced by the transparency of the polycarbonate, making it an ideal choice for setups that incorporate RGB lighting. In contrast, the Ink Box Pink utilizes a proprietary INK blend for its top housing that also delivers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, yet it is described as not being overly sharp. This nuanced difference indicates that while both switches can produce slightly higher-pitched sounds, the Grape Orange favors a crisper tone, while the Ink Box Pink leans towards a more pleasant clacky sound.

When examining the bottom housings, we find another layer of distinction; the Grape Orange utilizes nylon, which is known for yielding a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's soft characteristics allow it to absorb sound more effectively, resulting in a duller yet rounder experience. Comparatively, the Ink Box Pink retains its proprietary INK blend in the bottom housing as well, allowing it to maintain a pointed and high-pitched sound, albeit with a focus on liveliness rather than depth. As a result, the Grape Orange delivers a more rounded auditory experience at bottom-out, while the Ink Box Pink aims for a consistent clarity and sharpness that evenly compliments its top housing.

Consequently, the combined impact of the different materials in the housing produces a diverse range of experiences when typing on each switch. The Grape Orange benefits from the nylon bottom housing, which enriches the overall sound profile through its absorbing capabilities, producing a holistic auditory environment. Meanwhile, the Ink Box Pink's unified INK blend in both housing segments contributes to a distinctly cohesive and crisp sensation but without the depth characteristic of the Grape Orange. If users are seeking a balance of clarity and a pronounced bottom-out feel, both switches could potentially deliver satisfying results depending on individual preferences; however, the Grape Orange offers a more rounded experience, while the Ink Box Pink serves up a livelier, clackier sound.

Weight

When comparing the Huano Grape Orange linear switch to the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces that cater to different typing preferences. The Grape Orange features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer less resistance during prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Ink Box Pink has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial feel that some users may find satisfying. Therefore, the Grape Orange is ideal for those seeking a more lightweight experience, while the Ink Box Pink appeals to those who favor a stronger push. Overall, the differences in their actuation and bottom out forces ensure that users can choose a switch that best fits their typing style and comfort level.

Travel distance

The Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch both feature a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them identical in this aspect. Since their travel distances are the same, users can expect similar keystroke feel and actuation characteristics when using either switch. This similarity could appeal to those looking for a consistent typing experience across different switches. Overall, with both switches having an equal travel distance of 3.6 mm, they will provide comparable results in terms of keypress dynamics.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Grape Orange linear switch is known for its quiet operation, producing minimal sound while typing, which lends itself well to a distraction-free environment or shared spaces. This tonal subtlety contrasts with the Gateron Ink Box Pink, which is characterized by a higher-pitched clack. This clacky quality delivers a crisp and bright auditory feedback upon keypresses, making it more pronounced compared to the Grape Orange. Those who prefer a richer sound profile may find the Grape Orange to be more suitable, as its quieter nature allows for an unobtrusive typing experience, while the Ink Box Pink will satisfy those who enjoy more auditory feedback from their mechanical switches.

In terms of feel, the Grape Orange switch provides an exceptionally light and effortless typing experience due to its ultra-low 40g actuation force, making it ideal for long typing sessions. This light feel can minimize fatigue, allowing users to type for extended periods with minimal resistance. In contrast, the Ink Box Pink is noted for its silky and polished typing experience, which combines a smooth key travel with reduced friction. This results in an overall refined typing feel that enhances comfort and speed. While both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, the Grape Orange allows for a lighter touch, whereas the Ink Box Pink emphasizes a smoother, more luxurious action.

Overall, both the Huano Grape Orange and Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. Those who prioritize a quiet typing experience with a light actuation force may lean towards the Grape Orange. Meanwhile, users seeking a more pronounced sound and a smoother, polished interaction will find the Ink Box Pink appealing. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on the user’s desired auditory feedback and tactile sensation, highlighting the personal nature of keyboard customization in the mechanical keyboard community.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Huano Grape Orange and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switches, your specific preferences and typing habits will play a crucial role. If you value a light, effortless typing experience and engage in long typing sessions, the Grape Orange, with its ultra-low actuation force of just 40 grams, would be an excellent choice. This switch is tailored for those who appreciate a low tactile resistance, allowing for quick and comfortable keystrokes without fatigue. Conversely, if you prefer a slightly firmer feel that still maintains smoothness, the Ink Box Pink, with its medium 60-gram bottom-out force, might better suit your needs. The Ink Box Pink offers a more pronounced, clacky sound profile and a silky typing feel, enhancing your typing experience with a crisp auditory feedback while you work or game. In essence, choose the Grape Orange for lightness and extended comfort, whereas the Ink Box Pink is ideal for those who enjoy a solid typing experience coupled with attention-grabbing acoustics.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Grape Orange Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Ink Box Pink Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn more